Fireworks and Canada Day celebrations in the region and beyond

The biggest celebration in Waterloo Region has always been held at Columbia Lake.

"We've certainly seen crowds upwards of 60,000 to 70,000 people," says Kelly McManus, the Senior Director of Community Relations and Events at the University of Waterloo.

The school has been hosting the event for the past 35 years.

But this year will be its last.

"The decision to make this our last Canada Day certainly wasn't an easy one," says McManus. "It was really started by our students as an opportunity for them to give back to our community. As you can appreciate, lots has changed in our community in 35 years. Even though we've been really proud to host it and welcome our community to our campus, we decided it was time to evolve the event and see what other opportunities may exist in the future."

They say the cost of the event and security were major factors in their decision.

This year's Canada Day celebration at Columbia Lake will only include fireworks. There will be no live music or other events scheduled at the park. Visitors are encouraged come by Columbia Park after 8 p.m. on Canada Day.